Day 43

December 17, 2019

Graffiti and Street Art have been a part of this neighborhood for several decades. Some of the murals that can be found in the area date back to the seventies. This specific piece can be found on 16th Street along with many other pieces. Some are newer, this one I believe has been there for some time. I don’t now who the artist(s) is/are but have put some feelers out and will update if and when I find out.

I am hoping the current gentrification of the neighborhood doesn’t mean the loss of such great art. Artists that live in the area are trying to hold out and are pushing to keep the culture and history of the neighborhood by adding more incredible works of art and refusing to sell their properties. It’s a tough battle to fight. I haven’t lived there in a very long time but this place still holds a special place in my heart. I visit every chance I get and I hope there is a way to balance the coming changes with the history and the culture of this special place. If you find yourself in Chicago, take a look around Pilsen, it’s quite safe. The Chicago Sun-Times published this guide sometime in 2018, I believe. It is still relevant and includes a map so you can plan your visit.